Licorice Root Extract
- Effective dose
- 1–5 %
- Evidence
- 3/5· Moderate
Last updated June 1, 2026
What it is
Licorice root extract is a botanical derived from Glycyrrhiza species, valued in skincare for its brightening and soothing compounds, chiefly glabridin, licochalcone A, and glycyrrhizin. Glabridin inhibits the tyrosinase enzyme that drives melanin production, which can help fade uneven pigmentation, while other components calm inflammation.
Benefits
Helps reduce UV-induced and uneven hyperpigmentation and soothes redness; in animal studies topical 0.5% glabridin inhibited UVB-induced pigmentation, and finished products commonly use whole extract in the roughly 1-5% range.
When to take it
Can be used morning or evening after cleansing; pairs well with other brightening actives. Daytime broad-spectrum SPF is important, since sun exposure drives the pigmentation it targets.
Side effects
Generally well tolerated and often used to calm sensitive skin, though irritation or allergy is possible in susceptible individuals. Potency varies widely because the active glabridin content of extracts is rarely standardized.
Sources
Products containing Licorice Root Extract
No products in our database contain this ingredient yet.